Sod Care - Durham Region

All You Need to Know About Sod Care

Everyone knows that proper watering is quintessential to establishing the roots of your new sod, but no one tells you about the right formula for that proper watering. That’s what we are going to cover here!

​The right way to water your sod

Too much water reaching the roots of your sod could make it soggy which in turn will inhibit the development of a strong root system. So, it should be taken care that you don’t overwater.

How long should you water your sod?

The next thing you will ask is how long you will have to water? Consistency plays a major role here. A steady water supply to the roots will ensure the health of the root system. Your new sod should be watered for 15-20 minutes approximately at a time. 

If the sod is installed during those summer days when the soil tends to shrink and dry, watering throughout the day will be the only solution to the problem. You will need 3 to 4 watering in a day throughout the season and when the weather drops down you can lower it to twice or thrice a day. This routine should be strictly adhered to for at least 3 weeks till the new roots establish.

The right time to irrigate your sod

You must irrigate the new sow at the right time in the day. It is ideal to water in the morning and evening when the sun is low. Watering at high temperatures will cause it to evaporate and there will be a compromise over the amount of water that is required for the sow at its roots. 

Soil with less moisture will be unable to retain those essential nutrients which are necessary for the proper well-being of the sow. If you have a healthy budget, you can also invest in a programmable sprinkler that can be timed to sprinkle the optimum amount of water.

It will take 10-14 days for the new roots to reach the ground. Once this cycle is completed you will have to mow the new lawn. To be specific you can mow after the 18th day provided it's not winter. If it’s winter it will take much longer for the sod roots to get to that health. Care should be taken so that you mow at the highest setting. 

Do not mow more than one-third of the grass blade. Cutting closer to the root will drain all your efforts. Reduce the frequency of watering before mowing so that the soil strength is regained. You should not let anyone walk over the lawn including your pets as well. The pressure will crush those new fragile roots and the development stunts at the point.​